Abstract

ALARCON PRADA, Ariel. Depression in the Renal Patient. rev.colomb.psiquiatr. [online]. 2004, vol.33, n.3, pp.298-320. ISSN 0034-7450.

Depression is the most common psychiatric alteration in ESRD patients treated with hemodyalisis. It may have adverse effects on outcomes, by increasing morbid-mortality rates because of its negative impact on a diversity of somatic and emotional factors presented on patients, which are critical for their recovery. We have designed a treatment strategy, which depends on the depression intensity. This strategy has resulted useful and its efficacy is being empirically tested. The schema presupposes a functional therapeutic staff, composed of a diversity of health professionals trained in the management of mental health of renal patients. We propose that renal disease patients might have not only a diagnostic psychological evaluation, but also a formal psychotherapeutic process. This would facilitate the later psychological work and would yield indicators about initial levels of depression and mental health, which will be compared to later sequentially measured levels. It is essential for patients and their families to receive psycho education about depression theory and the importance of early counseling. There are many intervention techniques to manage depression based on its intensity. Psychotherapy is a good choice and may be complemented with psychiatric drugs in most severe cases after a careful analysis of potential secondary effects and interactions with common ESRD drugs.

Keywords : Depression; kidney failure; treatment.

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